Description
This flavorful Cilantro Lime Chicken is pan-seared until tender and juicy, then coated in a zesty, herbed garlic-lime sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a fresh and vibrant main course perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds total)
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- Juice of 2 large limes
- Finely grated zest of 2 large limes
Instructions
- Prepare and Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and cooked through. If the chicken starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to prevent burning. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Return the skillet to medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until it becomes golden and fragrant, but not burnt. Add the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest to the skillet, scraping the bottom to loosen any browned bits stuck to the pan. These bits will incorporate into the sauce, adding extra flavor.
- Coat the Chicken with Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, along with any juices that have collected on the plate. Turn the chicken to thoroughly coat each breast with the cilantro-lime sauce. Cook for 1-2 more minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Pour any remaining sauce from the pan over the chicken, making sure to include all the bits of herbs and garlic. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.
Notes
- For extra tenderness, lightly pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
- This recipe pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
- If you prefer, substitute the lime with lemon for a different citrus twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
